|
DESIGN HINTS Whether starting from scratch or revamping an existing landscape the process is the same. The most important step is to have an overall plan. It can be implemented in steps but a master plan will help to keep the design cohesive and looking like all the elements belong. Without an overall plan, you risk having the parts look like they’ve been added on without regard for the rest of the landscape. What Do You Like? Before designing your landscape it is really important to decide what you like. Visit existing gardens, read books and magazines, or visit local nurseries to get ideas. Do be realistic, however, because it would be very difficult to recreate a woodland garden in an arid Southwest climate. Also, try to visit or read about gardens in different seasons. The summer garden always looks vastly different from the garden during other seasons. What Are Your Needs in the Landscape? Determine how you will use the landscape. Do you need an outdoor dining area, children’s play area, space for the dog, vegetable garden, compost pile, storage area for large items like a camper or boat? Do you need trees for shade or privacy? Make a rough sketch of your property and draw circles indicating possible areas where these activities might be accommodated. This is sometimes called a bubble diagram and is the actual beginning of your landscape design. Zones - It's often easier to landscape if you establish zones in your yard. The areas where you pass by everyday will get the most attention. This might be the path from a door to your car or at your front entrance. Decide which areas of the landscape are most important to you and concentrate on those areas first. In establishing zones, be aware that the far corners of your property are likely to get the least attention. Keep higher maintenance areas close to the house. Areas that require only periodic or seasonal maintenance can be located further away. This might include such things as fruit trees or a wildflower meadow. Hardscape - Permanent elements are typically installed prior to planting. This includes rock features, retaining walls, raised beds, sidewalks or pathways, etc. Hardscape elements need to be carefully placed because they are difficult and costly to move. Consider areas where you might need vehicle access and plan accordingly. For instance, a propane delivery truck has a limited amount of hose. Make sure your drive is close enough to the tank so the truck won't have to drive over a lawn Irrigation - Decide if you will install an irrigation system or if you will depend on hand watering. Irrigation systems can be a do-it-yourself project but be sure you know what you're doing, especially with regard to back flow prevention. Drip irrigation systems are very effective but do require annual maintenance. Unless you are very handy at do-it-yourself projects, this may be a project for professionals.
|